Gutsy Learning Series
The Gutsy Learning Series (GLS) offers a unique opportunity to learn directly from Canada’s leading experts in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Whether you're living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis—or supporting someone who is—you’ll connect with top researchers and healthcare providers as they explore key topics in a virtual setting.
Upcoming webinars
Topic: Managing your mental health and IBD
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) isn’t just a physical condition—it can deeply impact mental and emotional well-being, too. Join Dr. Dean Tripp and lived experience speaker Arielle Thompson for an informative and compassionate webinar exploring the connection between Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and mental health.
They’ll explore:
- How IBD can contribute to anxiety, depression, and stress
- Mental health strategies that can help support well-being
- Practical tools and resources for patients and caregivers
Whether you live with IBD or support someone who does, this session will offer valuable insight, advice, and hope for a more balanced and empowered life.
Date: November 20, 2025
Time: 7 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. ET
Register now!
Speaker bio
Dr. Dean Tripp
Professor of Psychology, Anesthesiology, and Urology
Queen's University, Toronto
Dr. Dean Tripp is a Professor of Psychology, Anesthesiology, and Urology at Queen’s University, where he has worked for over 20 years. His research focuses on understanding how mental health and physical pain are connected, especially in people with chronic abdominal and pelvic pain, as well as conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Dr. Tripp also chairs Queen’s Health Sciences Research Ethics Board and serves on national committees that guide research ethics and clinical trials in Canada.
Alongside his academic work, Dr. Tripp has coached Olympic and professional athletes, including members of the Ottawa Senators hockey team, on mental performance and resilience.
He has published more than 100 scientific papers and presented his work around the world on topics such as chronic pain, mental health, trauma, depression, and healthy coping. Dr. Tripp has received multiple teaching awards for his leadership and dedication to education, and he continues to be active in research, teaching, and mentoring at Queen’s University.
Lived experience speaker
Arielle Thompson
Mental health advocate,
Master of Social Work student
Arielle Thompson is a mental health advocate and Master of Social Work student with lived experience navigating life with IBD. Drawing from both personal insight and professional training, Arielle speaks about the complex intersections between chronic illness and mental health. Her work centers on building compassionate, trauma-informed spaces where invisible illnesses are recognized; pain and grief are openly discussed, as well as other emotional realities of IBD.
Event details
This event will be offered in English, with live simultaneous interpretation in French.
Submit your questions in advance when you register or ask them live during the session.
Can't join us? Register anyway and we'll send you a link to the recording!
Future webinars
New and emerging IBD therapies in Canada
December 10, 2025
Dr. Robert Battat
Register now
Past webinars and videos
Missed a session? Catch up anytime! All GLS webinars are recorded and available for on-demand viewing on our Past webinars and videos page.
Explore topics including:
- Medications and emerging treatments
- Diet and nutrition
- Flare and symptom management
- Mental health and wellbeing
- And more
Have questions?
For more information and support, contact us at learn...crohnsandcolitis...ca.
The Gutsy Learning Series (GLS) webinars could not occur without the support of our generous sponsors: